Teaching/Classroom Observations
The CTL offers classroom observations for those who teach courses at the University
of Georgia. The purposes for a having a classroom observation vary. Some are motivated
to use the observation as a formative process to improve their teaching or study aspects
of student behavior in their courses. Others need a letter of support to apply for
a state or national teaching award. Classroom observations provide direct evidence
of one’s teaching effectiveness within the context of a single class period and provide
additional information for faculty, beyond student evaluations, as they consider ways
to improve their courses.
Because there are different purposes for requesting an observation, the component parts of an observation cycle vary. Therefore, it is important for the instructor requesting an observation of his or her class to identify the desired outcomes. Depending on the purpose of the observation, the CTL can provide different options, including but not limited to:
- A meeting prior to the observation to discuss goals and desired outcomes.
- A formative letter containing recommendations for teaching improvement.
- A summative letter of the observation for a state or national award or addressed to the instructor to use at his/her discretion.
- A consultation after the observation.